A Survey of Ecological Economics

Abstract

Review: A Survey of Ecological Economics. Edited by Rajaraman Krishnan, Jonathan M. Harris, adn Neva R. Goodwin Reviewed by R. Srinivasan Indian Institute of Management Krishnan, Rajaraman., Harris, Jonathan M., and Neva R. Goodwin, editors. A Survey of Ecological Economics. Washington D.C.: Island Press, 1995. 385 pp. US $24.95 paper. ISBN: 1-55963-411-1. Recycled, Acid free paper. How different is ecological economics from any other branch of economics? Is it any different from traditional micro-economic theory? Are there special techniques, concepts, theories, etc. that are specific to the field of ecological economics? How different is it from environmental economics? These are some of the basic issues that need to be addressed when embarking on a study of ecological economics. The diversity of topics inclusive in the field has contributed to the growth of literature in a number of subject areas, including traditional micro- economic theory, environment and ecology, scientific thought, sustainable development, and natural resource economics and management. To this end, a comprehensive review of the field of ecological economics was long overdue. A Survey of Ecological Economics is the first book in the series, Frontier Issues in Economic Thought, edited by Neva R. Goodwin. The book is a product of the Research and Publication project of the program for the Study of Sustainable Change and Development at the Global Development and Environment Institute, Tufts University. It provides an extensive review of literature in the field of ecological economics. In publishing A Survey of Ecological Economics the editors attempt to develop a unified field or discipline despite the obvious differences in views and theoretical perspectives. A Survey of Ecological Economics is arranged in a sequence that can be easily followed by both novice and specialist in the field: beginning with the historical perspective, then dwelling upon the definitions and scope of the field, and providing an introduction to the theoretical tools and techniques. In addition, the editors introduce specific topics relating to energy and resource flow analysis, and accounting and evaluation. Current controversies relating to international economics, and ethical